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National Association of Broadcasters
Scopes Monkey Trial (July 21, 1925)
July 21, 1925

Moment 66: Scopes Monkey Trial

The Scopes Monkey Trial, formerly known as The State of Tennessee v. John Thomas Scopes, was the first ever live broadcast of a trial in U.S. history. WGN Chicago placed microphones throughout the courtroom, and reporter Quinn Ryan guided listeners through what was happening at the “trial of the century.”


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November 2, 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of the first commercial radio broadcast. To celebrate this special anniversary, we’re shining a spotlight on 100 key moments in radio's history.

We hope you’ll join us in celebrating your favorite radio memories throughout 2020. Use the hashtag #Radio100 across social media to share these moments with the world. Here’s to 100 wonderful years of radio, and to at least 100 more!


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